Plate Tectonics: The Mechanism

This text explains how detailed mapping of the ocean floor led scientists like Howard Hess and R. Deitz to revive the Holmes convection theory. Hess and Deitz modified the theory considerably and called their new theory Sea-floor Spreading. Among the seafloor features that supported the sea-floor spreading hypothesis were: mid-oceanic ridges, deep sea trenches, island arcs, geomagnetic patterns, and fault patterns. These features are treated in detail and related to the current Theory of Plate Tectonics. Educational levels: High school, Informal education, Middle school